what is the escape velocity of a space ship from earth going to outer space?
Answer Hello, Technically speaking, there is no single escape velocity, since it will differ according to the altitude from which the ship sets off. (In future space missions, this will become extremely critical, and it is virtually a foregone conclusion that no manned craft will be leaving from the surface of Earth- but rather from a platform already in space – for which v_e will be much less.) Anyway, you are probably referring to the *surface escape velocity* which is just under 7 miles per second, or about 25,000 mph. This is the velocity a ship would need to escape the full Earth’s gravity. As for “terminal velocity” there is no specific value I know of, in terms of a space ship arriving at or near Earth. Again, terminal velocity will depend on the specific altitude for which one is terminating a mission. (E.g. it may be a docking hookup at a space station or platform) In addition, IF the ship is actually to land on the *surface* of Earth, then it is clear that the aimed for termi
